Autumn Equinox, The

Grade 2-5-This informative and succinct title begins with a definition of the equinox and covers historical perspectives as well as current festivities in America, Europe, China, India, Nigeria, Angola, and Great Britain. An autumn story from the Sauk ("-a North American people originally living in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois") caps the presentation. Crafts, recipes, and games enhance the book's educational potential. Ellis's stimulating folk-art illustrations capture the essences of different cultures while retaining a continuity that helps to highlight similarities among such observances. Though not detailed enough to support an in-depth report, the information provides an excellent introduction to the importance of the autumn equinox. Though this title works best read independently or one-on-one, individual sections could be shared with a large group.